Meet Tom McKean.

Tom is a freelance commercial and editorial photographer, who shoots for area businesses throughout the Tri-State area. He also participates in arts and craft shows in Chester County. He shares his studio and home with his wife, Susan and five Bearded Collies. You can contact Tom at 610.420.0177, and see his photography at www.tommckean.com.

And now, the 12 Questions.

1. What kind of kid were you?

I grew up exploring art, drawing and music. I was in my own world with my imagination as an only child. When I was four years old, I was doing cartoons of Captain Cooke and Jerry Lewis. And I also wrote backwards left handed for fun.

2. What influences have shaped you?

Drawing, painting, playing drums, guitar and piano are my adorations. I also taught myself graphic design making logos and brochures. Eventually I discovered photography as my medium of expression. I began my career as a photojournalist for several local newspapers in Philadelphia; my photo journey now has evolved into shooting portraits, places, and fine art.

3. Ever done anything really dumb?

I had a client that wanted me to send a photo of beakers. I sent an image of sneakers instead.

4. How’d you learn to do what you do?

I’m a self taught artist. Never got to school.

5. What are you working on now?

I’m shooting more personal projects and expanding into more corporate work. And shooting video.

6. Walk us through a typical day at work.

I get up at 5:30 am. I have to get the dogs out and fed. Then I spend several hours with social media and marketing. I then work on what assignments I’m shooting and planning other shoots for the following days.

7. Who do you love?

I have had many favorite artists throughout my career. I love Ansel Adams for his landscapes. Jay Maisel for his bold colors, and Joe McNally for editorial work.

8. What are you passionate about?

Art is my passion that drives my photography.

9. What are you proudest of?

The many accomplishments I have made in photography and the many friends I have made over years.

10. Describe a great night out.

A nice candle light dinner with my wife at a traditional restaurant. Good food or great music!

11. So what’s next for you?

I’m experimenting with video and doing more photography as a fine art form.

12. What will your epitaph say?

“Here’s to an artist who gave his passion for photography to the creative community.”